14 years old, distilled 4th October 2001, 55.6% abv, Second-Fill Ex-Sauternes Hogshead, 186 bottles

The nose has hints of violet and apricot - but is quite closed. The mouthfeel is thin with little cling. The body has violets, peaches, apricots, and hints of lavender. The finish is more violet and lavender.

Water brings out thin whorling that settles briefly. The nose now more violet, and a hint of cornflake dust. The body gains vanilla, butterscotch, dried coconut flakes - but the lavender, violets and peaches remain. The finish is also gains a hint of vanilla.

Decent without water, but you'd be mad not to add some. A superb dram for an evening with old friends.

4/5